Simit

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy to activate the yeast.

2. 2

   Add flour, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture and mix with your hands until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. 3

   Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.

4. 4

   Divide dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a ball, then cover and let rest for 10 minutes.

5. 5

   Roll each ball into a long rope about 24 inches (60 centimeters) long, then connect the ends to form a ring, pinching firmly to seal.

6. 6

   Mix molasses or tahini with 250 milliliters water and 5 grams salt in a shallow bowl to create the glaze.

7. 7

   Place sesame seeds on a plate or shallow tray, dip each simit ring into the molasses glaze to coat lightly, then roll immediately in sesame seeds until completely covered.

8. 8

   Place coated simit on parchment-lined baking sheets and let rest for 30-40 minutes until slightly puffy but not fully risen.

9. 9

   Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius), then bake simit for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown and sesame seeds are toasted.

10. 10

    Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before serving warm.